What is the recommended treatment for polymyalgia rheumatica?

• A. Physical therapy
• B. Prednisone
• C. NSAIDs
• D. DMARDs

Answer: (B)

Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder characterized by muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the shoulders and hips. The primary treatment for PMR centers around corticosteroids, and prednisone is the most commonly used medication for this condition.

Prednisone is effective because it rapidly reduces inflammation, alleviating the symptoms associated with PMR. Most patients experience significant improvement in their symptoms within a few days of starting treatment. The treatment typically begins with a low dose of prednisone, which can be gradually tapered down as symptoms improve and as guided by the patient's response to therapy.

While physical therapy can be beneficial for maintaining mobility and strength, it is not the first-line treatment for addressing the underlying inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide some symptomatic relief, but they are generally not as effective as corticosteroids for controlling the inflammation specific to PMR. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are usually reserved for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases but are not commonly indicated in the treatment of PMR.

Overall, prednisone is the cornerstone of treatment due to its efficacy in managing PMR symptoms and addressing the inflammatory process.